By
1971, the cold war had started to thaw. Arms reduction
treaties resulted in the massive reduction of nuclear
bombers. In 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed and the
Strategic Air Command was ordered to stand down from alert - the
first time in over 20 years. The Air Force shifted it's
emphasis to its tactical missions. With no viable military
threats on the horizon, the U.S. Congress reduced defense
appropriations. Far fewer aircraft were developed and
purchased.
The Gulf War soon provided the Air
Force and the Navy with the opportunity to test their latest
aircraft in real combat situations. The Stealth aircraft
hit their targets. Not only were they not fired upon, but
they were never even detected. "Smart Bombs"
proved their worth. Combat aircraft from Navy carriers
successfully struck many targets. All in all, it was a
grand demonstration of American air power. Good show,
guys!

USAF
Combat Aircraft
All the great new fighters - the F-117 Nighthawk Stealth
Fighter, F-15, F-16 and even the new F-22 Raptor.
B-1 and B-2 Bombers and, of course, the lovely A-10
Thunderbolt / Warthog.

USAF
Support Aircraft
New KC-10 Tanker, the various flying command posts, the
new cargo planes and trainers.